At Vinehall Pre-Prep we believe that the quality of education in a child’s early years is the key to their future academic progress.

The teaching in the Nursery, Kindergarten and Reception is based on the Curriculum for the Foundation Stage. This stage is the period of education between 3 and 5 years of age.

The six curriculum areas of learning within the Foundation Stage cover the main areas of young children’s development. These are:

• Personal, Social and Emotional Development
• Communication, Language and Literacy
• Mathematical Development
• Knowledge and Understanding of the World
• Physical Development
• Creative Development

During these foundation years we aim to introduce the areas of learning through stimulating and challenging experiences. Throughout the Early Years we base the learning and play activities on the children’s existing skills and interests. We carefully structure the work to help children develop new skills and build new relationships.

Within each learning area there are Early Learning Goals. Most children will have achieved these by the end of the Reception year, although some children will have exceeded these and will be working beyond them. In all areas of the curriculum we provide experiences, activities and opportunities for the children to work towards and achieve the Early Learning Goals. Where appropriate a child will work towards the National Curriculum levels of attainment. We recognise that not all children develop at the same speed or in the same way.

By observing the children at work and play we are able to assess their progress and attainment. We maintain a profile of each child’s development throughout the Early Years at Vinehall and will share the information with you at Parents’ Evenings.